Enrico Fermi High School

Enfield High School Science Department

Course Information Sheet

Course Title: Advanced Chemistry (AP/UCONN ECE) Weighted Grade Level: _1_

DESCRIPTION OF COURSE This course follows the syllabus and uses the textbook of the freshman chemistry courses (CHEM 1127/1128) at UCONN. The exams and laboratories are identical. The course also works in line with the AP Chemistry curricula. In general, the UCONN and AP curricula parallel each other very well, but UCONN tends to a more mathematical approach and AP to a more conceptual approach. The course will cover both approaches. This will prepare the students for the 8 UCONN provided in-class tests and for the separate AP Test administered out-of-class annually in May. Many, but not all, colleges will accept UCONN credits from this course. Similarly, many, but not all, colleges will accept and AP score of 3, 4, or 5 (out of 5). Determining whether neither, one, or both of these approaches is best for your student depends on their college plans. Often, you must contact the college to determine what they will accept.

The course offers an in-depth study of many chemical topics including stoichiometry (mole/mass relationships), chemical bonding, solutions, acids and bases, precipitation reactions, oxidation-reduction reactions, equilibrium, kinetics, thermodynamics, and quantitative analysis. At least two periods per week are spent in the laboratory. A number of the labs will utilize an inquiry approach where the students will “design” the lab procedure.

PURPOSE OF COURSE This course is designed to further prepare students for the very rigorous chemistry courses required for college degrees in science, medicine, and engineering. Students can enter the UCONN Early College Experience program and if they receive a C or better for their UCONN grade, they will receive 8 hours of UCONN credit. This course will also prepare students for the Advanced Placement Chemistry exam which can provide college credit also.

BASIS FOR GRADING (CHECK APPROPRIATE ITEMS) X Tests Notebook X Quizzes Research X Homework Projects Class Participation Reports – Oral Term Papers X Reports – Written X Lab Reports X Midterm and Final Exam Other

SCIENCE DEPARTMENT MISSION STATEMENT The mission of the science departments is to guide students to become scientifically literate; develop hands-on techniques and skills of critical analysis; decision making; and problem solving. Students will be challenged to think, question, hypothesize, accumulate and interpret data, and draw conclusions. The integration of laboratory investigations provides opportunities for students to foster logical thought, creativity and insight. The individual student will develop a sense of self-awareness, self-worth, and responsibility through the systematic application of scientific methods and knowledge.

EXPECTATIONS OF LEARNING Science students will:  Develop scientific literacy skills to investigate, interpret, understand and synthesize scientific information.  Develop critical thinking skills that will enable them to write persuasively, solve problems, and make decisions wisely.  Form conclusions independently, adopt opinions and recognize multiple perspectives.  Gain an appreciation of the world around them.  Develop an awareness of the relationships that exist between science and other disciplines.  Develop an awareness and appreciation of the valuable role that science will play in their future. 